A Developer’s Guide to Buying Internal Doors

Internal doors play an important role in defining the style, functionality, and safety of a property. For developers, it’s essential to choose doors that jot only meet building regulations, but also offer durability, privacy, and aesthetic appeal. With so many types, finishes, and features available, making the right choice can feel overwhelming. This guide breaks down the options and key considerations, helping you choose the internal doors that best suit each space in your development.

The impact of internal doors on your development project

Internal doors might seem like a small detail, but they have a big impact on both the look and functionality of a property. Paying attention to these factors from the outset can not only enhance buyer satisfaction and property value but can also help to avoid costly issues down the line.

The right doors can elevate a home’s overall aesthetic by creating a sense of quality and cohesion that makes a strong first impression on potential buyers. Beyond appearances, they provide privacy between rooms, help control noise, and support the everyday flow of life in a home.

For developers, fire safety and compliance with building regulations are particularly important. So, selecting the correct fire-rated doors ensures that properties meet legal standards and protect occupants in the event of an emergency.

Types of internal doors

The right type of internal doors can affect a property’s functionality, safety, and overall appeal. Understanding the different types of doors available, and their benefits, can make this process far easier.

Solid core vs hollow core

Solid core doors are made from a dense, often engineered core, which gives them superior durability, sound insulation, and a premium feel. They are heavier and provide better resistance, which can make them ideal for high-traffic areas or rooms where privacy is a priority.

Hollow core doors, on the other hand, are lighter and more affordable, as they are constructed with a cellular interior. While they are less durable and provide minimal sound insulation, they can work well in low-traffic areas or where budget is a consideration.

Glazed vs non-glazed

Glazed doors incorporate glass panels, which can vary from clear to frosted or decorative designs. They allow natural light to flow between rooms, create a sense of openness, and can enhance interior aesthetics.

Non-glazed doors, on the other hand, provide complete privacy and are generally better for bedrooms, bathrooms, or spaces where noise reduction is important. Developers often choose a combination of both to balance light, openness, and privacy throughout a property.

Pre finished vs unfinished

Pre-finished doors come factory-coated with paint or varnish lacquer, which can save valuable time on site and ensure a consistent, high-quality finish across the property. They are ideal for fast-track projects or developers who want a polished look straight out of the box.

Unfinished doors, by contrast, are supplied ready for painting or staining on site. While they offer complete flexibility in colour or finish, they can add time and cost to the project.

Flush vs panelled designs

Flush doors feature a smooth, flat surface that gives a modern, minimalist appearance. They are easy to clean and often work well in contemporary properties. Panelled doors incorporate recessed or raised panels, providing character and architectural interest. They can range from classic four-panel styles to more elaborate designs, and can add elegance to modern, traditional or heritage-inspired developments.

Pocket doors and sliding options

Pocket and sliding doors are space-saving alternatives to traditional hinged doors. Pocket doors slide into a cavity within the wall, which can make them ideal for smaller rooms or areas where a swinging door would be impractical.

Sliding doors can also be mounted externally on tracks, which provides a sleek, modern aesthetic. Both of these options will require careful planning during construction but can significantly enhance the usability and flow of a space.

Fire doors

Fire doors are designed to resist the spread of fire and smoke for a specified period, typically 30 or 60 minutes, indicated as FD30 or FD60. They are a crucial part of building safety, as they help to protect occupants and allow safe evacuation routes.

Fire doors are usually made from solid or composite cores and must be fitted with the correct fire-rated frames, hardware, including hinges, handles, and intumescent seals. It’s mandatory that they care compliant with building regulations, and they must be installed and maintained correctly to be effective.

Features of internal doors to consider

When choosing internal doors for a development, it’s important to look beyond the style and type. Several features can influence functionality, safety, and overall satisfaction for future occupants.

Compliance and building regulations

It’s essential that your internal doors are compliant with building regulations. By considering these features early in the planning stage, developers can select doors that balance compliance, safety, comfort, and long-term usability, whilst avoiding costly adjustments later on.

Fire safety (Approved Document B) ensures doors help prevent the spread of fire and smoke, protecting occupants and meeting legal standards. Accessibility (Approved Document M) means doors are practical and easy to use for everyone, including people with limited mobility.

Acoustic performance (Approved Document E) helps reduce noise transfer between rooms, and security (Approved Document Q) ensures doors meet minimum standards to protect against intruders.

Sustainability is also increasingly important. Internal doors with timber that has FSC or PEFC certification supports responsible sourcing and environmentally conscious building practices, and can also appeal to modern buyers.

Hardware and fittings

Door handles, hinges, locks, and other fittings not only affect usability but also contribute to safety, security, and the overall look of a space. Fire-rated doors require specific intumescent seals and hardware to function correctly in an emergency, while even non-fire doors benefit from high-quality fittings that ensure smooth operation and durability.

You can aim to choose hardware that complements the door style, whether modern, traditional, or bespoke, to elevate the room’s aesthetic and enhance the overall impression of the property.

Finish and aesthetics

The door’s finish can define the style and feel of a room. Choosing the right finish will help to tie the property’s interior together and leave a lasting impression on buyers.

Black industrial doors can create a sleek, contemporary look, while rural-style oak internal doors will bring warmth and character to more traditional interiors. Classic white doors offer a clean, versatile option that works in almost any space.

Beyond colour, texture and detailing, such as matte, gloss, or stained surfaces, can further enhance the design and complement the surrounding décor.

Installation and maintenance

Choosing the right method of installation can save time, reduce costs, and ensure the doors perform as intended.

Internal doorsets (pre-hung units)

Pre-hung doors come already fitted within their frame, which can allow for quicker installation on site. This makes them particularly suited to large-scale developments, where efficiency and consistency are key. Because the door, frame, and hinges are supplied as a complete unit, installation times are shorter and there is less risk of alignment issues.

Traditional joinery (component parts)

Installing doors from component parts involves fitting the frame, door, and hardware separately. This method does tend to take longer, but it offers greater flexibility, so it can be ideal for smaller developments or bespoke projects where precise sizing, custom finishes, or non-standard designs are required.

Maintenance considerations

Once installed, internal doors all benefit from regular maintenance to ensure longevity and performance. Pre-finished doors should be cleaned with a soft, damp cloth and mild detergent, avoiding abrasive cleaners that can damage the surface. Unfinished or painted doors might require occasional touch-ups to maintain appearance.

Hardware such as hinges, handles, and locks should be checked periodically to ensure smooth operation and compliance with fire-rated specifications where relevant.

Choosing the right supplier

Picking the right supplier can make all the difference in a development project. A supplier with a broad product range helps keep designs consistent and simplifies ordering, while reliable delivery ensures the project stays on schedule.

Technical support and aftercare are just as important. Suppliers who can advise on installation, fire-rated doors, and maintenance can help to avoid costly mistakes.

Customisation options, from bespoke finishes to specialised glazing, will allow you to meet unique design needs without compromising on quality. Finally, proven track records or case studies give confidence that the supplier can deliver on time and to the required standard, making your job as a developer far smoother.

Find the right internal doors for your development

Choosing the right internal doors is a crucial part of creating a high-quality, functional, and compliant property. JB Kind offers a wide range of internal doors, all backed by expert advice and reliable delivery. Whether you’re working on a large-scale development or a smaller bespoke project, JB Kind can provide the products, support, and guidance you need to get it right every time.

Explore our range today and make selecting internal doors one less thing to worry about on your next development. Download our internal door buying guide for a handy reference.